Pregnancy is a transformative journey that marks the beginning of a growing bond between mother and child. It is usually described as the most beautiful experience that a mother goes through. During pregnancy, many people feel happy and amazed as they watch their babies grow inside them. They get excited when they feel the baby moving for the first time, hear the baby's heartbeat at the doctor's appointments, and see the small shape of their baby on ultrasound pictures. However, pregnancy comes with many challenges. It brings emotional highs and lows, as expectant parents eagerly anticipate the arrival of their little one. From morning sickness, nausea and fatigue to hormonal fluctuations, frequent urination and physical discomfort, expectant mothers may face a range of hurdles along the way. Some women also experience heartburn and constipation as the growing uterus puts pressure on the digestive and urinary systems.

Alongside these changes, a woman’s body goes through many physical changes during pregnancy as the body adapts to support the growing baby. These changes occur gradually over nine months. Some women may notice changes in their hair texture or thickness, as well as changes in their skin, such as darkening of the nipples and the appearance of a dark line down the abdomen. Pregnant women may notice swelling in the ankles, feet, and hands due to water retention. One of the most noticeable physical changes is the growth of the abdomen as the uterus expands to accommodate the developing foetus. This growth often leads to changes in posture and balance as the body adjusts to the increased weight in the front.

What Is A Trimester In Pregnancy?

Everyone’s experience with pregnancy is unique. Pregnancy is typically divided into three stages, referred to as trimesters, each lasting approximately three months. The first trimester spans from conception to 12 weeks, the second trimester from 13 to 27 weeks, and the third trimester from 28 to 40 weeks. Noticeable changes to the size of the belly typically begin around the 12th week. It is most likely that the belly will become apparent to others by the middle of the second trimester, around 16 to 20 weeks. 

First Trimester 

Every pregnancy belly is different but every bump goes through a transformation in each trimester. There is no “normal” shape or size of a growing pregnant belly. You will not start to show in the first trimester. Generally, in the first trimester, a pregnant woman may experience bloating, which can be mistaken for signs of an early pregnancy belly. However, this bloating is due to increased progesterone levels, not the baby's size. This hormone makes the muscles in the womb relax, getting it ready to grow as the baby gets bigger.

Second Trimester 

During the second trimester, the baby continues to grow quickly. This is when a woman expecting will probably begin to notice that the belly is getting bigger, especially if she is pregnant with more than one baby or it is the second child. Around the 20th week, the uterus will have expanded up to your belly button, causing your belly to noticeably protrude for many women. This is mainly your expanding uterus rather than the baby that's giving you the round look at this stage. At 20 weeks, the baby is still less than 500 grams. When the bump first becomes visible, it is normal for it to seem like it is growing more upwards than outwards because your stomach and intestines are being pushed up to make more room for your uterus. 

Approximately 80% of pregnant women develop a linea nigra, characterised by a dark vertical line running from the abdomen to the pubic bone. This generally occurs in the second trimester. This line which disappears in weeks after delivering the child, appears due to some hormonal changes. Certain theories suggest that the increase in melanocyte-stimulating hormone produced by the placenta is responsible for the linea nigra. This hormone elevation leads to heightened melanin production, the pigment responsible for skin coloration. 

In the second and third trimesters, many women begin to experience Braxton-Hicks contractions. These sporadic contractions are caused by the tightening and relaxing of uterine muscles. While these occasional spasms are generally nothing to worry about and do not indicate labour, it is essential to contact your doctor if the contractions become regular, last for more than an hour, or increase in intensity or frequency.

Third Trimester 

By 28 weeks, your uterus and bump have expanded well above your belly button. Around the 31st week, the baby is almost developed and will begin to gain weight rapidly. As a result of which, the bump will continue to grow, and you may notice your stomach feeling tight. This sensation can be uncomfortable. The rapid growth and stretching during pregnancy can lead to the development of stretch marks on the skin around your belly. As you go through the third trimester of pregnancy, you may observe your pregnant belly 'drop' lower into your pelvis. This phenomenon, known as engagement or lightening, is your body's natural preparation for labour, as it positions the baby closer to the pelvis.

Pregnant belly expansion can also alter the appearance of your belly button. For some, the belly button remains unchanged, while for others, it protrudes. This transformation usually occurs during the second or third trimester, often around 26 weeks of pregnancy. While this change might be unexpected, it is entirely normal, and there's no cause for concern. The belly button mostly returns to its original state in the weeks following the delivery of the child. In the third trimester, some women experience uncomfortable twinges on their belly button. Experts are of the opinion that it is a common occurrence and usually not a cause for concern. It is believed that the sensitive nerves and tendons around the belly button may be activated when the baby changes positions, resulting in a brief, sharp pain.

Taking Care of Your Pregnant Belly 

Just like any other skincare routine, your pregnant belly care involves exfoliation. This eliminates dead skin, dirt, and bacteria buildup, creating a clean canvas for subsequent products. It is advised to opt for an extremely gentle approach. During pregnancy, you might find it comforting to moisturise your bump. This will not only nourish your skin but can also help with your itchy stretch marks. Products like pregnancy belly masks that function similarly to traditional face masks are available in the market. Whether you're using an oil, balm or cream, ensure that these products contain lipids and ceramides. One must avoid water-based formulations, as they may not create the same protective barrier on the skin. Since skin tends to absorb ingredients more effectively when damp, it is beneficial to provide natural moisture for your belly skin. According to doctors, after showering, you must exit the hot water but leave the shower running at its highest temperature. This will generate steam in the bathroom, which is excellent for allowing your belly skin to absorb moisture.

Pregnancy brings about a whirlwind of emotional changes for many women. Hormonal fluctuations play a significant role leading to mood swings, heightened sensitivity, and emotional ups and downs. Expectant mothers may experience a range of emotions, including joy, excitement, anxiety, fear, and even contradictory thoughts. The anticipation of becoming a parent, coupled with the physical and psychological changes of pregnancy, can evoke a mix of emotions that vary from day to day or even hour to hour. Pregnancy and bodily changes make different women react differently. Due to the emotional swings, pregnant women can feel unpleasant about the physical changes in their bodies. Gynaecologists and psychologists believe while it is normal to experience various feelings during pregnancy it is crucial to avoid comparing yourself to others. Pregnant women should not stress and fixate on the size and shape of their growing bumps. They should instead engage in self-care to maintain a healthy pregnancy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When does a pregnant belly start showing?

It is most likely that the belly will start showing and become apparent to others by the middle of the second trimester, around 16 to 20 weeks. 

2. Which trimester does the pregnant belly grow the most?

Weeks 13 to 16 mark the onset of the second trimester when many pregnant women feel their best during this time. It is around this time that you may start to notice your baby bump emerging as the child is growing rapidly.

3. Which trimester requires a pregnant woman to be most careful?

During the first trimester, the foetus is particularly vulnerable to harm from substances such as alcohol, drugs, certain medications, and illnesses like rubella. Hence, it is advised by doctors to stay extremely cautious during the first trimester and not engage in any unnecessary physical activities without consulting gynaecologists. This period is characterised by rapid changes in both your body and your baby's body.

4. Which pregnancy trimester is the most difficult one?

The third trimester marks the final stage of pregnancy and can often be the most challenging and painful. As your baby continues to grow, placing increased pressure on your body, you may experience aches and discomfort.

5. Are stretch marks in the belly common during and after pregnancy?

Stretch marks, or striae, are a common occurrence during pregnancy, affecting up to 90% of pregnant women. They typically appear during the sixth and seventh months of pregnancy as set-in streaks on various parts of the body, including the abdomen, breasts, thighs, buttocks, hips and lower back.

Sources:

Pregnant belly: What to expect from your growing baby bump 

How Your Pregnant Belly Will Change During Each Trimester 

How to Take Care of Belly Skin During and After Pregnancy

Pregnancy - week by week